Pressing the "Pause" button will not completely stop the game, Sony PS new patent revealed

K-LinePoet · 2026-03-01T09:07:12+00:00

Sony has filed a patent for a technology called "soft pause," which allows the game to not completely stop when the pause button is pressed. Instead, it reduces difficulty or adjusts speed, enabling players to answer calls and handle other real-life needs during gameplay. This feature could improve multiplayer gaming experiences.

K-LinePoet

2026-03-01 09:07:12

Abstract generation in progress

IT House, February 23 — According to tech media Tbreak today, Sony PlayStation has filed a patent called “Soft Pause,” allowing games to not fully stop when the pause button is pressed.

In the patent description, Sony details the purpose of this feature: “Switching the game execution mode from normal mode to soft pause mode, where the game continues to run but reduces the player’s gameplay intensity through one or more means.”

IT House notes that this mode can be triggered in various ways, including pressing a specific button, receiving a message notification, or an in-game event. Once activated, the system may adjust settings such as lowering game difficulty, enabling “bullet time,” or reducing volume, creating a gentler experience without completely interrupting the game.

This means players can answer calls, reply to messages, and after pressing pause, the game will automatically slow down and reduce difficulty, easing operational pressure. It may also support multiplayer games.

It is worth noting that most multiplayer games currently do not support pause functions. If a player leaves, their character usually remains idle for a long time, and extended inactivity might even result in being kicked out by the system. Sony’s new patent aims to avoid disrupting the gameplay rhythm for all players, allowing others to continue playing normally and accommodating real-life needs.

View Original

This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.